Menopause is a natural phase in life that brings hormonal changes affecting both men and women. While men experience a gradual decline in testosterone, women face a more rapid drop in estrogen, making skin changes more noticeable. Dr Jeanel, a gynaecology-trained doctor, recently shared her insights on FM96.3 about how menopause affects skin and what we can do to maintain healthy, radiant skin during this stage of life.

How Menopause Affects Skin

• Rapid Collagen Loss: In the first five years of menopause, women can lose up to 30% of collagen, leading to dry, sensitive skin, wrinkles, sagging, and pigmentation.
  
• Hormonal Imbalance: Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels disrupt the skin’s natural oil balance, which may cause acne, dullness, or uneven texture.
  
• Other Triggers: Climate changes, diet (especially oily or fried foods), and sun exposure can worsen these effects.
  

Men also experience hormonal changes, but the process is slower. Men may notice dryness, thinning skin, and some acne, but the changes are generally less abrupt and noticeable compared to women.

Common Skin Issues During Menopause

• Dryness and sensitivity across face and body
  
• Sagging and fine lines
  
• Dark spots or pigmentation
  
• Adult acne caused by hormonal fluctuations
  
• Reduced skin barrier function, making skin prone to irritation
  

Tips to Maintain Healthy Skin

Dr Jeanel emphasises that prevention is better than treatment. Here’s how you can care for your skin:

1. Daily Skincare: Hydrate regularly, cleanse gently, and always use sunscreen—even on cloudy days or during air travel.
   
2. Treatments: Non-invasive procedures like Skin Boosters help restore hydration, repair damage, and maintain skin health with minimal downtime. Treatments can be customised based on individual skin needs.
   
3. Lifestyle Habits:
   
   • Adequate sleep to support skin repair
     
   • Balanced diet rich in antioxidants and low in processed/oily foods
     
   • Stress management and light exercise to maintain overall wellness
     

Key Takeaway

Menopause affects everyone differently, but women often experience faster and more noticeable skin changes due to rapid hormonal shifts. By combining daily skincare, treatments, and healthy lifestyle choices, it’s possible to keep your skin hydrated, resilient, and radiant.

“Even during menopause, taking proactive steps for skin health can make a visible difference. Prevention is always better than cure,” says Dr. Jeanel.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. For personalised guidance, consult a licensed doctor.